HRT commentator apologizes to viewers during World Cup match

A commentator for Croatian Radio Television (HRT) had to issue an apology to viewers during a live broadcast of a World Cup match. The delay occurred at the beginning of the broadcast, which followed shortly after the conclusion of Croatia's match against Ghana. This tight scheduling meant the start of the next game was slightly delayed, and as a result, the national anthem of Colombia was not heard by viewers.

“

At the beginning, I would like to apologize to you and the people of Colombia because we did not hear their anthem.

"At the beginning, I would like to apologize to you and the people of Colombia because we did not hear their anthem," the commentator stated. He explained that the period between the end of one match and the start of the next was "never shorter," acknowledging that viewers were likely eager to hear post-match reactions from the Croatian team and coach Zlatko Dalić following their victory over Ghana.

“

As the only justification I can give is that this is the shortest period ever between the end of one match and the start of another.

The commentator assured viewers that efforts would be made to prevent such an occurrence from happening again. The match itself was a significant one, pitting Colombia against Portugal to determine the second-place finisher in their group, and thus, Croatia's next opponent in the Round of 16. The outcome of this match would directly impact who Croatia would face in the knockout stage.

“

We will try to ensure that this does not happen again.